# XXXV: The Heir of France Is Crowned explained — Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc

> Chapter companion for Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc by Mark Twain.

## What happens

Joan and the army march triumphantly to Rheims, where Charles VII is crowned in a grand ceremony. Joan reflects on her mission nearing completion, and the King grants Domremy a permanent tax exemption. The chapter highlights the adoration of the people and the solemn farewell between Joan and her soldiers.

## Themes in this chapter

### Faith and Divine Mission

Joan's mission culminates in the coronation, seen as divine fulfillment; the holy flask is described as heaven-sent, reinforcing the sacred nature of her task.

### Patriotism and National Identity

The coronation unites France; the tax exemption for Domremy symbolizes national gratitude and the enduring bond between the people and the Maid.

### Innocence and Purity

Joan's simple request for Domremy's tax exemption reflects her unchanged, selfless nature despite her fame; the people's adoration highlights her perceived purity.

## Character check-ins

### Joan of Arc

Rides in white armor, gazes at Rheims with deep joy; bids farewell to her army; secures tax exemption for Domremy; is adored by the people.

### Louis de Conte

Narrates the events, describes the coronation and the holy flask, and reflects on the significance of the tax exemption.

### Charles VII

Crowned at Rheims; grants Domremy a permanent tax exemption; lodges at the Archbishop's Palace.

### Guillaume Fronte

Mentioned as having told Louis de Conte about the holy flask in Domremy.

## Key lines

> Her sublime mission was closing—closing in flawless triumph. Tomorrow she could say, 'It is finished—let me go free.'

Joan's divine purpose was reaching its perfect conclusion; she would soon be able to declare her work complete and seek release.

_Reflects Joan's sense of fulfillment and anticipation of the end of her active role._

> Domremi Rien—La Pucelle

Domremy owes nothing—the Maid of Orleans.

_The official record of the tax exemption, showing France's enduring gratitude to Joan._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/personal_recollections_of_joan_of_arc_se/chapters/xxxv-the-heir-of-france-is-crowned
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/personal_recollections_of_joan_of_arc_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/personal_recollections_of_joan_of_arc_se/chapters